Brazilian striker Matheus Cunha responded emphatically to Japan's pre-match remarks after his team clinched a 2-1 victory against the Asian squad in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, keeping their quest for a sixth title alive.

Prior to the match, Japan's Kento Shiogai suggested that Brazil's reputation had diminished and that their star player Neymar was no longer at his peak. Brazilian head coach Carlo Ancelotti labeled these comments as mere 'mind games' from the Japanese side. Following the match, Brazil's performance served as a strong rebuttal, thwarting Japan's aspirations to advance past the Round of 32 once more. Shiogai had remarked, 'I don't hear much about Brazil these days. Brazil used to be a powerhouse, but now only France and Argentina are strong.'

Cunha Celebrates Victory

After the match, Cunha was seen signaling five fingers, symbolizing Brazil's rich World Cup history of five titles, and he responded to Shiogai in a viral video by exclaiming, 'Five World Cups!' Additionally, the Manchester United forward shared an Instagram story stating, 'Now you know a little more than about us. Never above anyone, but never below either.' The soundtrack accompanying his post featured Kendrick Lamar's 'Humble,' which includes the refrain, 'Sit down, be humble.'

Thrilling Comeback

Japan's Samurai Blue began the match with a solid defensive strategy, effectively stifling Brazil's early opportunities. Kaishu Sano scored a remarkable strike from the edge of the box in the 29th minute, giving Japan a 1-0 lead at halftime. In the 56th minute, Casemiro equalized with a header, although goalkeeper Zion Suzuki thwarted a goal attempt from Vinicius Jr. Just six minutes into the additional time, Bruno Guimaraes assisted Martinelli, who executed a precise finish, propelling Brazil into the quarterfinals.

Significant Achievements

Brazil's impressive victory over Japan marked a historic moment, as it was the first time since the 1978 FIFA World Cup that the five-time champions won a knockout match after trailing at halftime.

According to Opta Analyst, Casemiro, at 34 years and 126 days, became Brazil's second-oldest goal-scorer in World Cup history, following Bebeto, who scored at 34 years and 137 days in 1998. Furthermore, only Pele recorded more assists for Brazil in the World Cup than Bruno Guimaraes, who is now approaching Pele's record with four assists in the current tournament.